In a poignant ceremony held at the Presidential Secretariat, President Ranil Wickremesinghe was bestowed with the National War Heroes Flag, marking the commencement of War Heroes Commemoration Month. The event, held on Monday, May 6th, underscored the nation’s deep respect and gratitude towards those who sacrificed their lives for the defense of Sri Lanka’s territorial integrity during the prolonged conflict.
Major General Nishantha Manage (Retired), the Chairman of the Ranaviru Seva Authority, presented the prestigious Ranaviru flag to President Wickremesinghe, who serves as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. This symbolic gesture not only honors the President but also symbolizes the nation’s collective appreciation for the sacrifices made by its servicemen and women.
War Heroes Commemoration Month, observed annually in May, stands as a solemn tribute to the brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the face of adversity. For three decades, Sri Lanka endured a relentless struggle against terrorism, during which countless servicemen from the tri-forces laid down their lives to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty. Additionally, many others sustained injuries, bearing the physical and emotional scars of war.
The ceremonial pinning of the national war hero flag to the President signifies the commencement of Ranaviru month, a period of reflection and remembrance for the nation. This tradition, carried out during the first week of May each year, serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by the country’s defenders.
In addition to receiving the National War Heroes Flag, President Wickremesinghe was also presented with a model plaque of the Ranaviru flag by the President of the Ranaviru Seva Authority. The presence of esteemed individuals at the event, including the President’s Senior Advisor on National Security, Sagala Ratnayaka, Secretary to the President Saman Ekanayake, and Defence Secretary General Kamal Gunaratne (Retired), further highlighted the significance of the occasion.
The ceremony not only honors the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice but also reaffirms the nation’s commitment to cherishing their legacy. As Sri Lanka moves forward, it does so with gratitude for its war heroes and a solemn promise to never forget their invaluable contribution to the nation’s history and future.
